Last month we discussed how computers are portrayed in cultural icons like Lost in Space, Star Trek, The Rocky and Bullwinkle Show, and -- of course! -- that lost gem, The Computer Wore Tennis Shoes. This article continues this essential exploration of American culture with more probing profiles of computers on TV and in the movies.

They were actually (other than the AI droids) very believable and realistic, and that is why you didn't see them. Remember that R2-D2 plugged into the port and checked on the status of things? Remember that at each work station there was a console? Remember the 3D view of the Death Star as it came around the moon to blow up Alderdon?

Fully integrated with the systems of the ships, and everywhere being used for getting real things done without being a central fixture. That is fairly realistic.